Consider this: Test case for state agency

Six months after state officials committed to improving the oversight and transparency of New York’s homes for people with developmental disabilities, the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is investigating allegations that an employee of a group home in Cambridge, Washington County, repeatedly used a cattle prod on a disabled resident.

A co-worker at a group home called Arlington House made the accusation in July, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigated. The alleged victim cannot speak on his own behalf. The investigation did not turn up the device. The district attorney’s office has decided not to pursue a criminal case, but the accused worker is on administrative leave as OPWDD continues its investigation.

An investigation of group homes by The New York Times found secrecy and cover-ups of an appalling number of cases of bullying, neglect and physical and sexual abuse of residents with conditions such as Down syndrome, autism and cerebral palsy. The Times also found that fewer than 5 percent of allegations of abuse were reported to law enforcement, and few employees found to be abusers were fired.

Since the allegations became public in March, the state has implemented an agreement with the state police on guidelines for reporting possible crimes — a policy that underscores longstanding state law. The agency’s new director has also rolled out improved training, tighter hiring policies and has vowed to suspend and then fire people who abuse or neglect group home residents. (Since April, 120 workers have been suspended.)

The current allegation is sickening, and if true, the person responsible must be fired. The district attorney’s decision not to pursue criminal charges shows the difficulty of cases involving people with disabilities. OPWDD’s ongoing investigation provides an unfortunate opportunity for the agency to prove it is sincere about reform.